@Russ SandiferThe initial concept of having your LLC partner with another investor is fine. 

We have access to a couple of off-market deals, so getting access to extra capital to make bigger deals possible (even at a cost to our GP position) or in the event that more-than-anticipated amounts of verbally committed investors back out is a concept that we are exploring.  

They are two totally different concepts that really cannot be compared against each other in a meaningful way. 

Edward Ramp, Owner/Realtor of Zen Mountain Realty services Western North Carolina.

Worked out by simply asking and selling him on the concept of making interest and being the bank!

I think I understand the general concept.

I understand the general concept of rate buydown in that it effectively creates a breakeven a few years down the road where you end up saving money. 

With each day I'm starting to feel more and more comfortable with these concepts and feel that in order to avoid analysis paralysis I need to get off my butt and just jump in. 

Mastermind Group: a peer-to-peer mentoring concept used to help members solve their problems with input and advice from the other group members Mentor: a trusted counselor or guideMastermind Groups > Mentors, no? 

I like the larger earnest money concept from @Jessica Zolotorofe.